EAST MEADOW, N.Y. -- Matthew Schaefer skated with the New York Islanders for the opening of rookie camp Thursday. It was his first official day on the ice with the organization that made him the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, one week before training camp and an audition to begin his professional career in the NHL.

Coming off the Draft, development camp, offseason training and getting settled on Long Island, a defenseman who turned 18 six days ago said he's equipped to prove why belongs in the lineup when the Islanders open the season at the Pittsburgh Penguins on Oct. 9.

"I feel super close," Schaefer said. "Obviously, take it day by day. I'm not looking ahead, still focusing on today. Great session on the ice there.

"I feel so much more ready. When you're training in the summer

See Full Page